Slip and Fall in a Casino
Many people enjoy a day or night out at a casino, maybe hoping to win big at the slot machines or blackjack tables. You may be there to visit the restaurants or nightclubs, taking in shows or relaxing with friends. Unfortunately, what started out as a fun outing at a casino could end in an injury after you have slipped and fallen. After such an accident, you may be unable to work and could be facing significant medical bills as such accidents can lead to very serious injury, including broken bones or traumatic brain injury. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, the casino may be liable for your lost wages and medical bills, according to our slip and fall attorneys.
Common Injuries Sustained in Casino Slip and Fall Accidents
Slipping and falling in a casino may seem as if it is a minor accident, one that would cause simple bruises or scrapes. However, slipping and falling is the most common cause of traumatic brain injury, which can lead to permanent disability. Other types of injuries that can occur in a slipping or falling accident include:
- Bone fractures, including hip or spinal fractures
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Sprains and strains
Factors That Can Complicate Your Casino Slip and Fall Claim
In most cases, when you suffer an injury after slipping and falling, the owner of the business or building may be liable for your injury under premises liability. However, there are factors in a casino injury that may complicate your ability to file a claim. Many times, casinos have areas that may not be operated by the casino itself, including retail stores and other attractions. This does not mean the casino is not liable as both the casino and the separate business entity could be held responsible for an injury that occurs.
The key is proving that the casino and/or the business were negligent in some way and that their negligence led to your injury. If the casino is on Native American territory, your claim can get even more complicated as Native American casinos often have immunity from civil actions by outside courts. In order to receive compensation after an injury at a Native American casino, you must file your claim according to the rules set by the Tribal Council where the casino is located. If the Native American casino is not operated on Native American territory, however, and is operated by a separate corporation, it is possible you may file a premises liability claim through outside courts.
What Are Your Legal Rights?
As in any business, the owner must take all reasonable efforts to protect the patrons of that business. Regular inspections of equipment must be performed and if equipment fails due to lack of maintenance, the owner may be liable for your injury. For example, if the seats in front of slot machines have not been inspected properly and the chair breaks when you sit on it, the casino could be held liable for any injury you suffer. However, if you slip on a patch of water at the pool that had just been splashed there by another patron, the casino may not be liable as it is not reasonable to expect them to clean every water spill in the pool area immediately.
If you or a loved one have been injured after slipping and falling at a casino, contact the slip and fall attorneys at Lundy Law today to learn what rights you may have. Because casino laws can be extremely complicated, it is important to speak to an attorney who can advise you of what rights you may have. You can arrange for an initial, no obligation consultation by calling 1-800-Lundy Law or completing the easy form on our website.
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